I'm getting into F-T/R, and I want to get a dedicated rifle built. I've had other customs built before, but never a dedicated F-Class rifle. I've been asking around and talking to some of the shooters at the matches on Sundays for their input. I understand that weight is a big factor in equipment decision. I think I'd like to have my weight in the barrel and in the stock. Here's what I'm thinking on the system. Please critique.
Bullets: I plan on shooting the 185 gr Juggernauts 300/600/1000, but I wouldn't mind having a 1000 yard load with something in the 200 - 210 variety. I'm wondering if I would be better off with the same bullet/load for all ranges though, and just getting as efficient as possible with it. What is the optimal/target velocity for the 185 gr Juggernaut?
Barrel: I would to go only fast enough on the twist to stabilize the bullet in an effort to minimize pressure. I'm thinking 12 twist on 30" - 32". It's my understanding I would need to jump from 12 twist to 10 twist if going above 185gr though, which may be a deciding factor in the decision to have only 1 load at 185. I like Kreiger, but I have a line on Broughton at a good price and it is available. Heavy Palma, 12 twist, 32" (cut down/flute if need to make weight).
Action: Kelbly's F-Class Panda because of their reputation and weight. I have looked at BAT as well, but looks like their wait time is at 1 year. What's the deal with the right bolt, left port? Why do guys do that? I have Stillers on other builds, and I know they have an aluminum F-Class action as well. Much better price. Thoughts?
Stock: Kelbly's KTS is what I'm leaning towards. Jim Kelbly recommended considering the 1M for F-T/R use if I think I may ever switch to Open. Not sure that I'll ever move to Open though. I typically run Manners T5A or AICS 1.5 with Viperskins, so I like the pistol grip type set up. I haven't seen a F-Class stock with a pistol grip though. Also been told to check into PT&G stocks.
Trigger: Huber Concepts. Love 'em!
Rings: American Rifle Company aluminum rings. Extremely light, and easy to mount. Also don't tend to leave ring marks.
Scope: March - currently running the 5-40 with FFP (although I know FFP isn't necessary). Thinking about switching to March 10-60, but I typically run Mil/Mil. MOA shouldn't be very hard to pick up on though.
Bipod: Currently have a Sinclair, but looking into the Joy Pod. Both are extremely light.
As I understand, the set-up described above essentially puts the majority of the weight in the stock and the barrel, which is where I want it. All comments and recommendations are welcome. Thanks!
Edit to Add:
What dies and any other loading components are recommended?
Bullets: I plan on shooting the 185 gr Juggernauts 300/600/1000, but I wouldn't mind having a 1000 yard load with something in the 200 - 210 variety. I'm wondering if I would be better off with the same bullet/load for all ranges though, and just getting as efficient as possible with it. What is the optimal/target velocity for the 185 gr Juggernaut?
Barrel: I would to go only fast enough on the twist to stabilize the bullet in an effort to minimize pressure. I'm thinking 12 twist on 30" - 32". It's my understanding I would need to jump from 12 twist to 10 twist if going above 185gr though, which may be a deciding factor in the decision to have only 1 load at 185. I like Kreiger, but I have a line on Broughton at a good price and it is available. Heavy Palma, 12 twist, 32" (cut down/flute if need to make weight).
Action: Kelbly's F-Class Panda because of their reputation and weight. I have looked at BAT as well, but looks like their wait time is at 1 year. What's the deal with the right bolt, left port? Why do guys do that? I have Stillers on other builds, and I know they have an aluminum F-Class action as well. Much better price. Thoughts?
Stock: Kelbly's KTS is what I'm leaning towards. Jim Kelbly recommended considering the 1M for F-T/R use if I think I may ever switch to Open. Not sure that I'll ever move to Open though. I typically run Manners T5A or AICS 1.5 with Viperskins, so I like the pistol grip type set up. I haven't seen a F-Class stock with a pistol grip though. Also been told to check into PT&G stocks.
Trigger: Huber Concepts. Love 'em!
Rings: American Rifle Company aluminum rings. Extremely light, and easy to mount. Also don't tend to leave ring marks.
Scope: March - currently running the 5-40 with FFP (although I know FFP isn't necessary). Thinking about switching to March 10-60, but I typically run Mil/Mil. MOA shouldn't be very hard to pick up on though.
Bipod: Currently have a Sinclair, but looking into the Joy Pod. Both are extremely light.
As I understand, the set-up described above essentially puts the majority of the weight in the stock and the barrel, which is where I want it. All comments and recommendations are welcome. Thanks!
Edit to Add:
What dies and any other loading components are recommended?
Last edited: